Legal Counsel - Project Development

Energy Vault; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the renewable energy sector seeks a Legal Counsel to provide legal advisory and support services, focusing on managing legal and contractual risks for project development activities. The role involves drafting agreements, engaging with authorities, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will possess an LLB and significant experience in infrastructure projects.

Qualifications

• LLB and admitted attorney status required.
• 8+ years' experience, ideally with top law firms and in-house roles.
• Extensive experience in project development or infrastructure in renewable energy.

Responsibilities

• Drafting, managing, negotiating, and executing agreements for the project development pipeline.
• Engaging with authorities related to project development.
• Providing strategic legal counsel and monitoring relevant legislation.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Problem Solving

Attention to Detail

Critical Thinking

Education

LLB

Job description

Description: The purpose of the role is to provide legal advisory and support services to Pele Energy Group and its subsidiaries to ensure the effective management of legal and contractual risks for all group activities, portfolio investments, and their underlying projects.

Reporting Line: Legal Counsel reports to the Executive General Counsel.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Support the Project Development business unit in drafting, managing, negotiating, and executing agreements related to the company's project development pipeline, including joint venture agreements, land lease options, land agreements, memorandums of understanding, joint development agreements, and sale-leaseback arrangements.
2. Assist in bid activities and ensure compliance with RFP requirements.
3. Engage with authorities related to project development, such as environmental agencies and municipalities.
4. Negotiate and draft project documents, including power purchase agreements and project development agreements for clients.
5. Coordinate with outside counsel to manage the company's project pipeline and corporate responsibilities efficiently.
6. Manage stakeholders to ensure timely and high-quality project execution while protecting the company's interests.
7. Provide strategic legal counsel, resolve legal issues, and represent the company in disputes if necessary.
8. Monitor relevant legislation and advise the company on legislative and regulatory developments.
9. Document legal policies and processes to support company operations.
10. Assist with various tasks and projects contributing to the company's success.

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

• LLB and admitted attorney status.
• 8+ years' experience, preferably with top law firms and in-house roles.
• Extensive experience in project development or infrastructure, especially in renewable energy.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong drafting skills and experience in due diligence.
• Client-facing experience with a commercial approach.
• Ability to interpret legislation and manage legal risks across jurisdictions.

Competencies:

• Leadership: Participative leadership, planning, monitoring, and measuring.
• Cognitive: Analysis, attention to detail, problem-solving, critical thinking.
• Interpersonal: Assertiveness, methodical approach, drive, flexibility, and focus on quality.